MMC forms cell to tackle sexual abuse complaints

Madras Medical College (MMC) and Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital have formed a sexual harassment grievances cell, as per the directions of the Medical Council of India (MCI).

“The MCI has directed all medical institutions in the country to set up sexual harassment grievance cells. Women students and staff account for more than 50 per cent of the strength in these institutions. Accordingly, we have set up a 13-member committee at MMC,” dean V. Kanagasabai said.

Shanta Ravishankar, professor of pathology is to head the committee.

There are 355 medical colleges in India, of which 60 to 70 per cent are in south India, he said, adding, “With 18, Tamil Nadu has the largest number of government medical colleges.”

“Women account for 60 per cent of the 5,300 students at MMC including in medicine, pharmacy, dental, nursing and physiotherapy. We have 1,000 nursing students, 800 nursing staff and 500 female nursing assistants. In addition, we have women staff in all categories including as technicians, pharmacists and in office work,” he said.

The cell will look into all manner of complaints and conduct inquiries when necessary, Dr. Kanagasabai added.